Tribute has been paid by Cleveland's Chief Constable, Sean Price, to the chairman of Cleveland Police Authority, Ted Cox, who is stepping down from the job.

Mr Price said Mr Cox had shown dedication, professionalism and unswerving commitment to the Cleveland force.

He said the work done during Mr Cox's year in office had brought stability and a major increase in performance - from which all communities in Cleveland had benefited.

"Ted helped generate the delivery of a financial recovery programme but never lost sight of the need to ensure we get the best use of our resources and our communities are provided with the best policing service possible," said Mr Price.

Unison representative Steve Smitheringale, on behalf of civilian staff, said: "He has been unstinting in his efforts to ensure the force is on the right track."

Mr Cox will step down in June as chairman but will remain a member of the authority.